Student Spotlight: Samira Nuru, Study Abroad Spring 2013

How did you happen to come to JCU? My school, St. Mary’s College, is known for its study abroad programs, which allow you to transfer your scholarship. I was determined to study abroad during my college experience, so when I learned of the opportunity to come to John Cabot University in Rome, I went for it!

What made you decide to choose JCU? The main reason was the great selection of courses in my major, Communications. You can take classes with excellent professors on anything from popular music which is my favorite class, to intercultural communications, to a course on Disney’s animated films. The other main reason was for the diversity of the students, who come from so many different countries worldwide.

Did JCU meet your expectations? By far! I am in classes with people from Italy, Germany, Saudi Arabia, just to name a few of the countries represented in the student body. Not only have I learned to work in teams with people from different cultures, but I’ve made friends from all over the world. You wouldn’t believe the charisma and the energy that you find here, with such diverse people beginning a new adventure and becoming a strong community, like a family.

What are your plans after graduation? I hope to join the Peace Corps or enter the Teach for America Program. Eventually I would like to go to graduate school and some day hopefully I’ll work in the communication department of an international organization like UNICEF.

What advice would you give to students considering coming into JCU to study abroad? I would recommend it highly! Some advice: Think of the city as your new home for 4 months and be open to all the great things Rome can offer you! And take the opportunity to learn Italian.

What was it like to study in Rome? I think the best way to describe it is the word “serendipity,” which means “pleasant surprise.” I didn’t come here with many predetermined thoughts, but I have fallen in love with Rome and Italian culture. When I go back to St. Mary’s I’m going to tell everyone that they must come here and experience Rome like I have. I don’t feel like a tourist, but a temporary citizen, and every day is an adventure.